IPL 2026: Will Suresh Raina join CSK as fielding coach? CEO Kasi Viswanathan responds

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League, is gearing up for the start of the IPL 2026 season, with their opening match scheduled against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati on March 30. However, ahead of the season, one topic had been dominating conversations among fans – whether former CSK star Suresh Raina would return to the franchise as the team’s fielding coach.

The speculation spread rapidly across social media and cricket circles, with many supporters hoping to see the beloved “Chinna Thala” back in yellow. But CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has now addressed the rumours and clarified the situation.

Suresh Raina as CSK fielding coach? Franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan gives update

In a recent interaction with a Tamil news channel, Kasi Viswanathan firmly dismissed the reports linking Raina with the fielding coach role at CSK.

“Suresh Raina is not the fielding coach. It’s a baseless rumour.”

The rumours had gained momentum after CSK posted a teaser on social media hinting at a “big announcement” scheduled for March 22. Fans quickly began speculating that the announcement could be related to Raina’s return to the franchise in a coaching role.

Given Raina’s legendary status at CSK and his long association with the team, the idea excited many supporters. The former Indian batter was a key figure in CSK’s success during their dominant years and remains one of the most loved players in the franchise’s history.

However, the franchise has now confirmed that Raina will not be part of the coaching setup for the upcoming IPL season.

Who is CSK’s new fielding coach?

While Raina will not be returning in a coaching role, CSK has indeed made a new addition to their support staff. Former England wicketkeeper-batter James Foster has been appointed as the team’s fielding coach for IPL 2026.

The 45-year-old brings extensive experience from both international cricket and franchise leagues. Foster has previously worked as the fielding coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has also been involved with several T20 teams around the world, including the Desert Vipers and Peshawar Zalmi.

Kasi Viswanathan had earlier confirmed the franchise’s plans to bring in a specialist for the role.

“We have been looking for a fielding coach. I am hopeful he will join us.”

Foster’s appointment comes at a crucial time for CSK as the franchise looks to rebuild after a difficult campaign in IPL 2025, where they finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in their history.

The Englishman will work alongside an experienced coaching staff led by head coach Stephen Fleming. The support team also includes batting coach Michael Hussey, bowling consultant Eric Simons, assistant bowling coach Sridharan Sriram, and fielding coach Rajiv Kumar.

In the upcoming season, CSK will be captained by Ruturaj Gaikwad, while legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni will continue to be part of the squad, adding invaluable experience and leadership to the team.

Another major development ahead of IPL 2026 is the arrival of Sanju Samson, who has joined the franchise through a trade from Rajasthan Royals. Samson’s move to CSK comes after his remarkable performance in the T20 World Cup 2026, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

With new additions to both the coaching staff and playing squad, CSK will be hoping to bounce back strongly this season and return to their winning ways.